10 Tips To Land That Green Gig!

By:  Stephanie Benney

So, you have implemented a recycling program in you home, take careful consideration in mapping out your weekly errands in order to conserve gasoline, grow your own vegetables and have even managed to save a few dilapidated pieces of furniture from the garbage graveyard by refinishing them.  But somehow, it just doesn’t seem like enough; you are passionate about all things green and sustainable, and now have decided to make the jump towards landing a new job in the “Eco-Industry”.

Everyone wants to ace an interview, but acing an interview for a green company just may have a different twist.  Our friends at greenjobsready.com have put together a list of 10 tips to help you land your dream green job.

Green jobs are among the most sought after jobs in the world today. Not only do they promise steady employment and pay well but, they also offer those who enter the field an opportunity to be part of a “team” that is striving to make a real difference in people’s lives and in the environment. Getting a Green degree is the first step towards getting the job you want with a green company. However, interviewing well for that green job you want is as important as your education.

1 – Consider your mode of transportation. As silly as it sounds, your choice of transportation to your green interview just may have some bearing on whether or not you get the job or not. While not everyone can afford an electric car there are some forms of transportation that are more green than others.

2 – First impressions do count. Many people have the mistaken idea that green companies allow their employees to dress extremely casual. This is not always the case as many companies prefer their employees either wear casual dress or dress professionally. Knowing the dress code of the business you are interviewing with could save you from being embarrassed and losing out on that job.

3 – Do your homework on the company that you are interviewing for. While this is good advice for any job it is essential for those seeking a green job. You want to know what technologies the company specializes in, what their vision for the future is and what if any industry awards they have won.

4 – Don’t overstate your knowledge, skills or education. If you are interviewing for a job in the green field where you have little experience or education then don’t try and bluff. Instead, admit (in the most positive way possible) this lack and focus instead on your specific skills that could help in this area as well as your interest in learning more about this particular field.

5 – Do let them know of your green involvements. Showing your concern for the environment in other small ways also shows your commitment to green jobs is more than a paycheck.

6 – Be prepared to explain to your interviewer why you want a job in the green sector and just how you feel you can help make a difference if possible tie in how you can help their company make a difference.

7 – Listen to each question carefully and get clarification when needed. Not only will this help give you time to think through your answer but, will also show the interviewer that you can listen well.

8 – Don’t rush your answers. Take your time and think through your answers. It helps eliminate mistakes and will actually impress the interviewer that you are taking the time to seriously consider the question.

9 – Let your excitement about the having a green job and the opportunity of making a difference shine through. Companies are looking not only for those who are qualified to work in the sustainable resources sector but, also for those who view this field as a commitment and a challenge not just as a way to earn a living.

10 – Whenever possible answer questions as though you are already working for the company. Showing them how your skills, talents and enthusiasm will fit in with their organization might just make the difference between you getting the job and someone else who is equally qualified.

As one of the leading cities in the country for sustainability, ‘burgh chicks” have an advantage to landing a phenomenal position in the green sector.  From green technology to green non-profits, there is an opportunity in Pittsburgh sure to fit. Happy interviewing!

Stephanie Benney is a “Sustainable Visionary” and also the new Pittsburgh Representative for Fuzed Marketing, where she helps companies increase their brand presence. stephaniebenney@yahoo.com